Diversity, Inclusion & Teamwork

Question 1

What is unconscious bias?

Answer 1

Automatic judgments and assumptions we make about people based on factors like their appearance, background, or identity—without even realizing it.

These biases come from our experiences, culture, and society, and they can influence our decisions and interactions, even when we think we’re being fair.

Question 2

What is the difference between diversity and inclusion?

Answer 2

Diversity - the characteristics and things that make us all different.

Inclusion - making everyone feel welcome.

Question 3

What are the benefits to a diverse team?

Answer 3

• Increased creativity and innovation
• Enhanced problem-solving and decision making
• Strengthened skill sets
• Boosted profits and revenue
• Heightened employee engagement
• Improved company reputation
• Strengthened team morale.

Question 4

Do you know of any reports on Diversity by the RICS?

Answer 4

Building Inclusivity - Laying the Foundation for the Future

Question 5

You say you’ve read Building Inclusivity - Laying the Foundation for the Future. What were the highlights?

Answer 5

• Current State of D&I: The report reveals that while there is a strong commitment to D&I within the sector, many organizations are still in the early stages of their inclusivity journey. Although there is ambition and senior-level support, there is a noticeable lack of structured planning, implementation, and monitoring necessary for tangible progress.
• Online Platform Initiative: To address identified gaps, RICS announced the launch of an online platform in the summer of 2016. This platform is designed around six core principles of their D&I work and aims to facilitate the sharing of best practices, learning from case studies, and providing access to relevant training, events, and awards.
• Call to Action: The report encourages firms to assess their current D&I practices, identify challenges, and engage with peers to foster a more inclusive industry. By leveraging shared knowledge and experiences, organizations can drive meaningful change across the sector.

Question 6

Do you know of any formal team building guidance?

Answer 6

RICS and the Construction Industry Council both have guidance on appointing project managers and the project team respectively.

Question 7

Do you know of any team building theories?

Answer 7

Bruce Tuckman theory - How groups of people progress through a series of stages:
* Forming - what are the goals / objectives.
* Storming - what are the conflicts.
* Norming - team spirit.
* Performing - finding the balance.
* Adjourning - Feedback.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs can also be applied - basic needs must be met (job security, belonging) before they perform

Question 8

You say you’ve read Building Inclusivity - Laying the Foundation for the Future. What were the highlights? (Mark 2!)

Answer 8

Report show significant under representation of minor groups which does align with British society.

RICS introduced Inclusive Employer Quality Mark (IEQM) encouraging firms to enhance inclusivity.

Many firms show a strong commitment but there is a gap between intention and implementation.

Plan was to lunch an online platform to share best practice and offer training.